President Biden pardons Minnesota turkeys

This year’s presentation marks the 76th year of this American tradition that dates back to 1947.

Courtesy of the National Turkey Federation

National Turkey Federation Chairman Steve Lykken presented the National Thanksgiving Turkey named “Liberty” to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Nov. 20 during the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation at the White House. Liberty and Bell received a formal pardon from the holiday table. This year’s presentation marked the 76th year of this time-honored American tradition that dates back to 1947.

“We appreciate President Biden for warmly welcoming the National Turkey Federation, and my esteemed colleagues and associates from the Jennie-O Team to the White House earlier today,” said Lykken. “This is a busy time of year for our industry and we’re grateful for the turkey producers and farmers that deliver food to our tables this holiday and every day.”

The 2023 National Thanksgiving Turkeys were raised in Willmar, Minn., under the direction of NTF Chairman Steve Lykken. Lykken is a 31-year veteran in the turkey industry and currently serves as president of Jennie-O Turkey Stores. Lykken was joined in presenting the National Thanksgiving Turkey by Jose Rojas, assistant vice president of live production at Jennie-O Turkey Store. While in Washington, D.C., Liberty and Bell stayed at the historic Willard InterContinental. Following their visit to the White House, the turkeys will retire to the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences in St. Paul, Minn., where they will receive housing, daily care, and access to veterinary services under the experienced care of veterinarians, faculty and poultry science students.

NTF’s participation in the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation began in 1947 with President Harry Truman. It has continued for 76 years across 14 successive administrations.

Source: National Turkey Federation

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